#MusicReview : Blending Deathcore with Sundanese Folklore: IMPURITY’s Haunting 'Wanci Surup'
IMPURITY’s latest single, "Wanci Surup," offers a gripping fusion of Sundanese culture and modern deathcore, delivering a haunting yet exhilarating sonic experience. Following the release of "Resital Genosida," the Bandung-based deathcore band continues their streak of intense musical output, blending heavy, guttural riffs with traditional elements to tell a culturally rich and eerie tale.
"Wanci Surup," which translates to "Dusk," is rooted in the Sundanese myth of Sandekala, a malevolent spirit believed to roam during twilight. In West Java, the period just after sunset is considered dangerous, especially for children, who are warned not to play outside lest they be snatched by this supernatural entity. IMPURITY brings this folklore to life through a dark, aggressive soundscape that mirrors the tension and fear associated with dusk.
Musically, the band strikes a unique balance between modern deathcore brutality and the subtle incorporation of traditional Gamelan instruments, creating an atmospheric backdrop that enhances the ominous theme. The combination of rapid, pounding drums, distorted guitars, and the metallic chimes of Gamelan adds depth to the composition, grounding it in the rich cultural context of the Sundanese people. The growling vocals, performed in Sundanese, amplify the weight of the song’s message, giving it an authentic feel while pushing boundaries within the genre.
IMPURITY’s influences from Carnifex, Signs of the Swarm, Shrine of Malice, and Suicide Silence are evident in the crushing breakdowns and technical precision, yet they set themselves apart with their bold incorporation of indigenous sounds. The lurching, eerie pace of the track mirrors the creeping dread associated with the Sandekala myth, while the chorus surges forward with the kind of energy that makes this song as engaging as it is unsettling.
Visually, the lyric video accompanying the song serves as a perfect reflection of the music’s themes. The dark, moody imagery captures the essence of “Wanci Surup,” providing a fitting visual counterpart to the band’s sonic exploration of Sundanese folklore.
"Wanci Surup" also serves as a prelude to IMPURITY’s upcoming mini-album, teasing fans with their commitment to blending traditional Indonesian sounds with brutal modern deathcore. With its intricate layering of musical textures and mythological storytelling, "Wanci Surup" is a bold statement from a band that is unafraid to experiment, yet firmly rooted in its cultural heritage.
For fans of deathcore looking for something fresh and innovative, "Wanci Surup" is a must-listen. It is an impressive blend of modern heaviness and cultural depth that keeps IMPURITY at the forefront of the Indonesian metal scene.
Contact:
Email : impurity.ron@gmail.com
IG: https://instagram.com/impuritybdg
FB: https://facebook.com/impuritybdg
Reviewed by @BrutalSick